Serial Comma (Oxford Comma)
The “serial comma” and “Oxford comma” name the same list-comma position: immediately before the final conjunction in a series. Microsoft requires it in its house style, but professional writing should follow the relevant publication or organizational style rather than treating the preference as universal grammar.
The serial or Oxford comma comes before the conjunction in a list of three or more items; use it when your governing style requires it.
Key details
Important caveats
Style Boundary
Other style systems may make a different choice, so consistency with the governing style guide matters.
Further guidance
Definition
The serial or Oxford comma is the comma immediately before the conjunction in a list of three or more items.
Microsoft Style
Microsoft style uses the serial comma in lists of three or more items.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Commas — Microsoft Style Guide (opens in a new tab)Microsoft · Microsoft house-style rule using the serial/Oxford comma before the conjunction in a list of three or more items